NorthPort’s Recent Moves Fuel Speculation of Imminent Franchise Sale
Over the past few days, NorthPort Batang Pier has witnessed a rapid dismantling of its core, and signs are increasingly pointing to something far more significant than just regular roster adjustments. With the departure of MVP candidate Arvin Tolentino to the KBL’s Seoul SK Knights and the trade of William Navarro to Magnolia, only Joshua Munzon remains from what was once considered a promising “Big 3.” The timing and pattern of these moves have tripled the speculation that NorthPort may be preparing for a franchise sale.
Coach Bonnie Tan’s Message: A Cordial Goodbye—or Something More?
In the wake of Tolentino’s official signing with Seoul SK, NorthPort head coach Bonnie Tan expressed nothing but support, stating, “We remain open to welcoming him back should he choose to return in the future.”
While Tan’s statement was filled with grace and well wishes, the subtext is more telling: the team is not actively trying to retain its top talent — a notable contrast from how other franchises usually handle star-level departures.
It’s not just about Arvin leaving. It’s the fact that NorthPort made no publicized counter-offer or attempt to match the KBL’s deal. That’s rare for a PBA franchise if the player is truly seen as a cornerstone.
Munzon’s Comments: A Roster Clearing in Real Time
Joshua Munzon’s post-game comments after NorthPort’s 94-70 loss to TNT further fueled the whispers. With sincerity, he celebrated the success of his former teammates:
“Arvin deserves to go there and make some money. He showed last conference how good of a player he is.”
“I’m happy for Will. He worked hard coming back from his ACL and was really good this conference.”
But reading between the lines, Munzon’s words can also be seen as a farewell speech to a chapter that has abruptly closed. He is now the last man standing from NorthPort’s semifinals core—and with the team spiraling in the standings, his status may not stay unchanged for long.
The Franchise Sale Rumors Grow Louder
These developments come on the heels of recent chatter that NorthPort’s franchise may be up for sale, much like Terrafirma’s deal with the Zamboanga Valientes, which is already nearing completion.
It’s notable that NorthPort has not made any major acquisitions to replace the departed stars. Instead, they are shedding core players without a clear competitive direction, which is often a hallmark of a team prepping for ownership change.
In a league where “farm team” accusations have dogged multiple franchises, fans are increasingly wary of patterns like these. Letting go of two of the best young forwards in the league within days of each other—and without receiving star-caliber talent in return—is difficult to justify from a purely basketball standpoint.
Conclusion: The Sale Signal Is Louder Than Ever
Whether intentional or coincidental, the signs are converging into one unmistakable possibility: NorthPort may soon follow the path of Terrafirma and sell its franchise. The departures of Arvin Tolentino and Will Navarro, combined with the team’s deteriorating competitiveness, have tripled the likelihood that a sale is either being explored or is already in the works behind the scenes.
Fans and league observers are now watching closely — not just to see where Joshua Munzon might go next, but whether a new team name will soon replace "NorthPort" in the PBA roster.
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